This week we’re going to try and discover if our children are natural savers or spenders. Many people succumb to the lure of instant gratification- even when they KNOW they will get less later on. Place one marshmallow on a plate in front of each child with instructions not to eat it yet. Then casually remark to the kids that you need to step away for a few minutes. Briefly explain that they can eat the marshmallow if they want to, but if they wait till you get back you will give them another one.

Hopefully at least one of your children was able to resist temptation and save the marshmallow. Reward their wisdom by doubling their investment! Finish off the lesson by discussing Proverbs 21:20 and how we can all grow in self-control. The wise man saves for the future in many areas- how can we be good stewards of our money, our food, our rewards, our time and our talents? Plenty of food for thought!

Finish off with a quick family prayer. God cares about every area of our lives; let’s encourage the children to pray about whatever is on their hearts. Add to your prayer journal weekly, and be sure to leave space to jot down a quick note when God answers the prayer. Your kids will grow stronger in their faith when they can look back and see what the Lord has done.